Chapter 404

"Why do I keep having these dreams every night…?"

Sakura sighed as she changed all her bedding once again. After finishing, she discreetly took the used sheets outside to air them, finally feeling a bit relieved.

But she knew this wasn't a sustainable solution. With her upcoming trip with Ino, was she going to have these dreams even while traveling?

Even Sarada had begun to notice her habit of changing sheets early in the morning, though Sakura had managed to make up various excuses to cover it up. To keep the act believable, she had even started washing Sarada's bedding daily as well.

"Ugh… This stupid dream is making my housework double!"

After finishing her chores early in the morning, Sakura plopped onto her bed for a brief rest. Then, she got up and stood before the bathroom mirror.

For some reason, she felt like her complexion had improved. Although the exhaustion was still visible, her skin seemed more radiant and full of energy.

"Weird… Could it be because of those dreams? No way… Ino's nonsense must be getting to me!"

Shaking her head, she dismissed the thought and went downstairs to prepare breakfast.

Today wasn't just the start of her trip—it was also the day Sarada and her classmates were leaving for their field expedition. So, Sakura got up early to make a hearty breakfast and even prepared a packed lunch for Sarada.

After seeing her daughter off, she quickly finished packing her own belongings and prepared to leave.

She had already arranged for leave from work. In her absence, Shizune would be overseeing Konoha Hospital. There weren't many patients lately, so things would run smoothly without any issues.

When she arrived at the station, she immediately spotted Yoichi and Ino. Ino waved her over energetically.

"Over here, Sakura!"

"I'm coming," Sakura replied with a smile, walking toward them. Once she got closer, she turned to Yoichi and greeted, "Yoichi-san, sorry for intruding on your trip."

"Not at all. The more, the merrier," Yoichi replied with a calm expression, keeping a polite distance.

His demeanor reassured Sakura. The dreams still felt too vivid, and if Yoichi had acted strangely in any way, she might have felt uncomfortable.

Thankfully, with his neutral attitude, she felt at ease. This trip might actually be enjoyable.

...

Aboard the Train

Once on the train, Ino found a seat toward the back of the carriage. Coincidentally, it was the same spot where Yoichi and Temari had spent hours together last time.

Thinking back on it, Yoichi found himself reminiscing fondly. He would have to find an excuse to bring Temari out again sometime soon.

After settling in, Ino took out some snacks and chatted with Sakura.

Most of the food had been prepared by Yoichi, who was something of a gourmet. He had even hired top-tier chefs from around the shinobi world to cook exclusively for him. The restaurant next to his apothecary only catered to his personal tastes.

As Ino and Sakura laughed and chatted along the journey, Yoichi mostly listened quietly, occasionally adding in stories about his travels or ancient history from a thousand years ago.

Having personally experienced the past, his storytelling was naturally captivating. Ino and Sakura were enthralled by his tales, even if some of their questions were deflected under the guise of "Onmyōji secrets."

By the time they reached the final stop, both women still felt like they hadn't heard enough.

Among the many topics, Ino had also mentioned her long-held desire for Kurenai to meet Asuma. However, past attempts had been delayed by various events, including Shikamaru's suspicion of Yoichi's intentions. That disagreement had nearly led to an argument between Ino and Shikamaru, leaving the matter unresolved.

...

Arrival at the Hot Springs

The trio arrived at a coastal town in the Land of Hot Water, where Ino led them straight to their inn.

After checking in and dropping off their belongings, they headed out to explore.

Sightseeing, tasting local delicacies, and learning about local customs—Ino made sure Sakura fully enjoyed every aspect of the trip.

As for Yoichi, he simply followed along. Ino had two main goals on this trip: fulfilling her promise to Yoichi and helping Sakura relax. As for her promise to Yoichi… that would come into play later that night.

By evening, they returned to the inn and enjoyed a luxurious local hot spring meal.

And finally, it was time for the main event—soaking in the hot springs.

As they returned to their rooms to change, Ino suddenly pulled Sakura aside.

"Sorry, Sakura… I won't be able to join you in the women's bath later," she said apologetically.

Sakura's face immediately turned red. She instantly understood what Ino meant.

With a playful smirk, she teased, "Oh~? Aren't you worried about someone else walking in on you two?"

"Ino~!"

Ino shyly pushed Sakura away and whispered, "The inn is practically empty today. It's just the three of us. No one else is coming."

"Got it, got it. Well, I guess I can't blame you—you do love that guy, after all."

Then, with a mischievous grin, she added, "But you will come back and keep me company later, right?"

"Of course! I'll come find you after."

With that, the two split up.

They had booked two rooms in total. Originally, Ino had planned to stay with Yoichi, but now it seemed like she would have to spend the night chatting with Sakura instead.

Upon returning to her room, Ino noticed that Yoichi was already gone.

She could easily guess where he had gone. Blushing, she retrieved the sheer white stockings she had secretly bought for the occasion.

"Such a troublemaker…"

She muttered to herself with a red face. But even as she grumbled, she still pulled aside her robe and began slipping into the smooth, delicate fabric.

Once she had fully adjusted the thigh-high stockings over her legs, she took a moment to admire herself in the mirror before grabbing her bath essentials and heading toward the mixed bathing area.

...

Meanwhile, in the Women's Bath

"Ahh~"

Sakura exhaled in pleasure as she submerged herself in the warm water, allowing the heat to soak into her skin.

"This feels amazing… Maybe I should have taken a break sooner. If only Sasuke-kun and Sarada were here too…"

Just as she was lost in thought—

Rustle…

She heard faint noises coming from nearby.

It wasn't far away, and… it almost sounded like Ino's voice.

"Ino?"

Curious, Sakura climbed out of the bath, wrapped herself in a towel, and followed the sound.

Eventually, she arrived at a bamboo fence over two meters high, separating the different bath areas.

Now that she was closer, she could hear everything clearly.

"Mm~"

"Yoichi… s-slower… ah~"

(End of Chapter)

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